Shell and Tube Oil Coolers
Shell and Tube Oil Coolers are a type of heat exchanger commonly used in industrial applications to cool oil. These coolers consist of a series of tubes (tube bundle) enclosed within a cylindrical shell. The hot oil flows through the tubes, while a cooling fluid (usually water or air) circulates around the outside of the tubes within the shell. Heat is transferred from the oil to the cooling fluid, lowering the temperature of the oil. This design is efficient for high-pressure and high-temperature applications due to its robust construction and ability to handle large volumes of fluid.
Specifications of Shell and Tube Oil Coolers
| Draught Type/Shape | Flow Type | MOC (Material of Construction) | Capacity (kW) | Fill Type | Drive Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Induced / Square | Counter Flow | Stainless Steel | 50 – 500 | Baffle Plates | Direct |
| Forced / Round | Cross Flow | Copper Alloys | 20 – 200 | Helical Inserts | Belt Drive |
| Induced / Rectangular | Parallel Flow | Carbon Steel | 100 – 1000 | Spiral Baffles | Gear Drive |
| Forced / Oval | Counter Flow | Titanium | 30 – 300 | Twisted Tubes | Direct |
| Induced / Circular | Cross Flow | Aluminum | 25 – 400 | Rod Baffles | Belt Drive |
Operations
- Flow Arrangement:
- Counterflow
- Parallel Flow
- Crossflow
- Heat Exchange Process:
- Oil flows through tubes.
- Cooling fluid circulates around tubes within the shell.
- Heat transfers from oil to cooling fluid through tube walls.
- Temperature Control:
- Thermostats and valves regulate flow rates.
- Bypass mechanisms manage temperature effectively.
Characteristics
- Durable Materials: Constructed from materials such as stainless steel, carbon steel, and copper alloys, which are known for their strength and longevity.
- Corrosion Resistance: These materials also provide excellent resistance to corrosion, ensuring the cooler can withstand harsh environments.
- Large Surface Area: The design includes a large surface area for heat exchange, facilitating efficient heat transfer from the oil to the cooling fluid.
- Effective Design: The arrangement of tubes and baffles maximizes the contact area between the fluids, enhancing heat exchange efficiency.
- High Pressure Capability: Designed to operate under high pressures, making them suitable for applications involving high-pressure fluids.
- Structural Integrity: The robust construction ensures the cooler can handle significant pressure without deformation or failure.